Security Guard Nabbed in Ondo Over Employer's Stolen Car from Port Harcourt

The Ondo State Police Command has successfully apprehended an individual suspected of inter-state vehicle theft and recovered a car reportedly stolen from his employer in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. This achievement came after a rapid police response, an intelligence-driven investigation, and effective cooperation with Nigerian Army personnel.

The operation was initiated following a distress call received around 11:59 a.m. on Friday, October 9. Mr. Akin Thomas, from Epinmi, reported that a motorist had bought N100,000 worth of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) but then drove off without paying. The suspect, later identified as Bamidele Rowell Lodi, allegedly distracted the fuel attendant by requesting water before quickly driving away without completing the payment.

Upon receiving the complaint, police operatives from the Isua Division promptly mobilized. They set up route blocks and began pursuing the fleeing suspect. Noticing the police presence, Lodi reportedly diverted onto the Ise–Ikare Road in an attempt to escape. However, the officers continued their pursuit and quickly coordinated with Nigerian Army personnel stationed at a checkpoint in Auga. This collaborative effort led to the suspect's interception and arrest for further questioning.

Initial investigations and intelligence gathering subsequently linked the vehicle in Lodi's possession to a theft reported by his employer in Port Harcourt. Investigators cross-referenced the vehicle's chassis number with the details provided for the suspected stolen car, confirming a match. This crucial piece of evidence helped establish the vehicle's true identity and the circumstances surrounding its possession.

Further intelligence revealed that the suspect, Bamidele Rowell Lodi, was employed as a security guard by the vehicle's owner in Port Harcourt and is alleged to have stolen the car before fleeing. Both the recovered vehicle and the suspect remain in police custody as authorities continue their investigation. The ongoing probe aims to fully ascertain the details of the alleged offences, verify the vehicle's ownership, and determine if Lodi is connected to any other criminal activities.

Ondo Commissioner of Police, CP Felix Ohagwu, praised the Isua Division operatives for their swift action and professionalism. He also acknowledged the Nigerian Army personnel at the Auga checkpoint for their timely intervention and effective collaboration, emphasizing that such inter-agency cooperation, actionable intelligence, and quick response are vital in combating crime across state lines and within communities.